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meteotsunami
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meteotsunami

water wave
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A meteotsunami is a large sea wave, measuring at least two meters high, caused by sudden atmospheric pressure changes, such as those during squalls or storm fronts. Unlike seismic tsunamis, which originate from earthquakes, landslides, or meteorite impacts, meteotsunamis are generated by weather-related phenomena. These waves can produce storm surges as they approach land.1

While seismic tsunamis are often associated with significant geological events, meteotsunamis are a distinct type of water wave driven by atmospheric disturbances. They can occur in oceans and lakes. The strongest recorded meteotsunami reached a height of 5.9 meters in Croatia in 1978.12

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
3 Britannica Sources
  1. What Is the Difference Between a Meteotsunami, a Seiche, and a Storm Surge?
  2. tsunami
  3. earthquake - Tsunamis

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